By Vicky Baunke in Goroka, EHP
More than 200 people, including women and children, remain displaced after four months of sorcery-related tribal fighting in Mane village, Unavi LLG, Lufa district, Eastern Highlands Province.
The conflict began in May after the death of a young man who was stabbed in the leg by his wife and later died from blood loss. Relatives accused an elderly man and two children of sorcery, sparking violent clashes. Fighting broke out on May 13 and escalated over several days. Local MP Simo Kilepa intervened by engaging police and peace mediators, leading to a ceasefire declared on June 14.
Despite this, clashes resumed and intensified for nearly two months. On July 8, two bombs were used, injuring several people, including a 12-year-old boy who suffered severe burns. Later, on July 18, a young man recently graduated from Grade 12 was killed in another confrontation, leaving behind six children and two wives.
The violence forced more than 200 villagers to flee. Many homes and gardens were destroyed, leaving families without food or shelter. Displaced women reported being unable to collect food from their gardens, while others said women was used to carry supplies during battles.
Community leader Moses Fonu, himself displaced, has appealed for urgent intervention from the local MP, provincial authorities, and law and justice agencies to restore peace so families can return.
Police confirmed the matter was reported on July 15. Investigations are ongoing, with suspects expected to face charges of sorcery accusation, use of dangerous weapons, and wilful murder under the Criminal Code.
Meanwhile, displaced families continue to seek refuge in nearby communities, surviving without reliable food supplies, housing, or the ability to send children back to school.
